Extensive evidence from a groundbreaking inquiry by the Equality and Human Rights Commission shows that many disabled people still experience harassment or abuse as part of everyday life, but that a lack of recognition of the scale and nature of the problem is preventing some public authorities from addressing the issue as effectively they could.

There can be no let up in ensuring Scotland continues to tackle prejudice so that we can live up to our ideals of tolerance and fair play, says the Equality and Human Rights Commission Scotland. The Commission’s comments follow the publication of the 2010 Scottish Social Attitudes Survey report on attitudes to discrimination and positive action, published today (Thursday 11th August).

The Equality and Human Rights Commission Scotland today launched a new report calling for access to equal marriage for same sex couples in Scotland. The report is a result of a symposium recently held by the Commission to investigate perceived barriers to equal marriage and suggest ways forward for legislators.

The Equality and Human Rights Commission Scotland will today launch the first ever international study into the rehabilitation of hate crime offenders. Despite rising numbers of racist, homophobic and disability related harassment being reported in Scotland, virtually no attention has been paid to what motivates people to commit these crimes or what can be done to stop them. This research reviewed previous and existing programmes that to determine what learning can be drawn for future programmes and interventions with offenders.

Groups from across Scotland have gathered for a specially convened symposium on Equal Marriage. As the law stands, same sex couples in the UK can enter into civil partnerships, but marriage is not yet an option. This event investigated the perceived barriers to equal marriage and sought to produce a roadmap for legislators for how to make equal marriage a reality.

On 6 April 2011, the new public sector equality duty will come into force. Scottish public authorities will need to consider what they are doing to eliminate discrimination, harassment and victimisation; to advance equality of opportunity and to ensure they are fostering good relations between different groups.